As part of TxDOT's suggested plan, two elevated lanes would be built in each direction from Loop 410 to FM 1103, with access to the elevated lanes at three points along I-35: at 410 west, 410 south, and Loop 1604.

Details of the proposed project, which is part of TxDOT's 25-year plan to address capacity needs on I-35, were revealed during a public meeting and open house at the Schertz Civic Center.

The purpose of the meeting, which included exhibits and a DVD presentation on the proposed expansion of I-35, was to gather public feedback on TxDOT's plans, officials said.

TxDOT spokeswoman Laura Lopez said the plan to construct elevated toll lanes came from a study that determined that more highway capacity was needed on I-35 in northeast San Antonio.

The study, known as the I-35 Planning and Linkages Study, included two options - leaving the interstate highway as is or putting in the elevated toll lanes.

Lopez said additional capacity is needed on I-35. TxDOT forecasts that traffic will increase by 48 percent in the area along the highway by 2035.

“(I-35) is a highly congested area,” Lopez said. “Definitely, there is a need, and we are being proactive by looking at the future of I-35.”

Lopez said there are several advantages for building elevated lanes, including minimizing the need and costs of obtaining right-of-way.

Other benefits TxDOT officials gave for building elevated lanes include minimizing the impact the construction will have on motorists and traffic, and avoiding the complete reconstruction of existing highway lanes, frontage roads, and intersecting roadways.

Once the elevated lanes are built, Lopez said existing I-35 lanes and frontage roads would remain open and free to motorists.

As of now, she explained, TxDOT doesn't have any costs or a time frame for construction on the proposed project.

The state agency plans to hold public hearings on any projected I-35 expansion in the summer, with an environmental study and design plan expected to be finished by fall 2014.

Details of TxDOT's plans caused concern for several attendees at Monday's open house.

Bruce Dubbs, a Universal City resident, said he thought not many motorists would utilize the elevated lanes if they are tolled.